Seared Scallops with Garlicky Sauce: A Gourmet Delight

Prepare the Scallops:
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Sear the Scallops:
- Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter has melted and the pan is hot, add the scallops in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side, without moving them, until they are golden brown and form a crust. The scallops should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Remove the scallops from the pan and set aside on a plate.
Prepare the Garlicky Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes, until it reduces slightly.
- Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve:
- Return the seared scallops to the skillet, spooning the garlicky sauce over them to coat. Allow the scallops to warm through for about 1 minute.
- Transfer the scallops to a serving plate and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Dry Scallops Thoroughly: Ensuring the scallops are dry before searing is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy crust.
Hot Pan: Make sure the pan is hot before adding the scallops to create a perfect sear.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the scallops in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming instead of searing.

Seared scallops with garlicky sauce can be served in various ways to suit different preferences:

Over Pasta: Serve the scallops and sauce over a bed of linguine or fettuccine for a luxurious pasta dish.
With Vegetables: Pair with sautéed asparagus, spinach, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
On a Salad: Top a fresh green salad with the scallops and drizzle with the garlicky sauce as a dressing.

This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients:

Scallops: High in protein, low in fat, and rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iodine, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Garlic: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to heart health.